I bought a 15 year old 16.2hh Tennessee Walking Horse/Quater Horse cross a few months ago and she has a really REALLY bad limp when I ride her, so I stopped riding her obviously and I don't want her to be just a 'pasture pet' and won't sell her [i love her :)]. I really think its arthritis, and that's what my farrier says it probably is, so I'm having the vet out. My farrier, whom a friend has used for 30+ years, recommends just giving her some bute [idk how to spell it, but its an equine pain med..] and then riding her. I don't wanna do that, bcuz I don't want it to prematurely wear off and her to be in pain. Suggestions?
Oh, and if you think it may be something other than arthritis, please suggest.

Having the vet out is a good idea. While it used to be that with pain we would just "give bute and get on with life", that is not the case anymore.

Bute (phenylbutazone) is commonly used for musculoskeletal pain, but just like any drugs it does come with some risks and should be used in a manner to achieve the results you want while still minimizing the risks. Bute is also just one part of an overall program to deal with arthritis (if that is what's going on). Turnout and daily light exercise are also recommmended with arthritis. And then depending on the type and severity of arthritis and the intended use of your horse, the vet may also recommend joint injections, IM injections of products like Adequan IM and possibly even oral supplements.

But get a good diagnosis and let your vet guide you in treating the issue and determining how much work your horse can still do.

Not all arthritis pain is caused by joint fluid becoming less viscous. Bony changes in and around the joint are often the cause.

And remember that supplements are classified as "supplements" rather than "drugs" simply because they don't have the studies to prove safety and efficacy. So, while they may be of use you should stick to the ones that have at least some research to back them up. And "natural" and "herbal" doesn't necessarily mean safe and without possible adverse reactions or harmful interactions with other products being used.

That is true Cindy. However, my experience with many other solutions with studies that are considered "drugs" or "pharmaceuticals" is that they have not worked as well for me. My comments were only intended to share what has worked for me and my horses. As far as safe is concerned I agree that you should always consult your veterinarian when combining any supplements or pharmaceuticals.

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